Property owners and managers have been urged to inspect and strengthen vulnerable parts of their buildings before the expected El Niño rains expose weaknesses and trigger costly damage.
The Institution of Surveyors of Kenya (ISK) has warned that heavy rainfall could put apartments, homes and other properties at risk, particularly where drainage systems, basements, retaining walls and roofs are poorly maintained.
The surveyors want property managers to carry out inspections and repairs before the rains intensify, instead of waiting for flooding or structural damage to occur.
“ISK urges property professionals and building owners to treat the rainfall outlook as a reason for early inspection, maintenance and contingency planning rather than waiting for flooding or building damage to occur,” the institution said in a statement.
ISK said early preparations would also help protect residents and keep essential services running during periods of heavy rainfall.
“Early maintenance, clear communication and timely response can reduce avoidable damage, protect occupants and help maintain the continuity of essential building services during periods of heavy rainfall,” it added.
Basements have been identified as some of the most vulnerable areas, with property owners advised to assess waterproofing, drainage and sump-pump systems. Critical equipment should also be moved away from areas where water could enter.
“Basements: Review basement flood protection, waterproofing, drainage and sump-pump arrangements,” the surveyors said.
Where underground parking areas are considered prone to flooding, property managers have been advised to limit access during intense rainfall. Motorists may therefore be required to avoid lower basement parking areas when flood risks rise.
The surveyors have also called for drains, culverts and stormwater channels to be cleared of silt, leaves, waste and other materials that could block the movement of water.
Gutters, downpipes, roof outlets and other drainage points should also be inspected and repaired before heavy rains begin.
ISK further advised property owners to check retaining walls, foundations and nearby slopes for signs of waterlogging, erosion or instability, which could worsen during prolonged rainfall.
The warning comes as Kenya prepares for the October-December rainfall season, with forecasts pointing to above-average rainfall in several parts of the country.
The World Meteorological Organization has also forecast a nearly 100 per cent likelihood of El Niño conditions persisting into February 2027, raising concerns over flooding and other rain-related risks.
ISK said rainfall conditions would not be uniform across the country, but warned that property owners should use the forecast period to put preventive measures in place.
The surveyors' advice places emphasis on prevention, with inspections, maintenance and emergency plans expected to help property owners limit losses and protect occupants when heavy rains arrive.